You look in the mirror and notice something isn’t right. One small section of your gum, around a single tooth, is red and puffy. What’s going on?
A swollen gum around one tooth is often a sign of a specific issue in that area, such as irritation from food, early-stage gum disease, or a tooth infection like an abscess. It’s your body’s way of telling you to pay attention to that spot.
If you’re worried about your oral health, our team at Ti Dental is here to help.
Common Reasons for a Single Swollen Gum
A swollen gum around just one tooth often points to a specific issue right in that spot. Let’s look at a few common causes.
Improper Floss or Brush Technique
Sometimes, the cause is simple; you might be brushing that one spot too hard, or maybe you snapped your floss down onto the gum. Improving your flossing and brushing techniques can help avoid this kind of issue. Even a tiny, sharp piece of food like a popcorn hull can get stuck just below the gumline and lead to temporary irritation and swelling.
Early Gum Disease
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that’s constantly forming on your teeth. When it collects along the gumline in one particular area, it can irritate the tissue. This early form of gum disease, known as gingivitis, often shows up as redness and puffiness in a specific area.
Tooth Abscess
A more serious cause of swelling is a tooth abscess, which is a pocket of pus from a bacterial infection. This can form deep at the tooth’s root or in the space between your gum and tooth. An abscess often comes with pain and is a clear signal that you need a dental checkup.
Key Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
How do you know if the swelling is minor or something that needs more attention? Keep an eye out for a few key warning signs, which may or may not be accompanied by pain.
- Gums that appear bright red or purplish
- Tenderness or pain when you touch the gum
- Gums that bleed easily when you brush or floss
- A persistent bad taste in your mouth or bad breath
- Pus that is visible between the tooth and gum
- A dull, throbbing toothache in the area
What You Can Do at Home for Relief
While you arrange to see a dental professional, you can take a few actions at home to increase your comfort. However, while these tips may provide temporary relief, they won’t address the underlying cause of the swelling.
Gentle Oral Hygiene
It’s important to keep the area clean, even if it’s tender. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle motions. When you floss, guide the floss carefully instead of forcing it. This helps avoid more irritation.
Warm Salt Water Rinse
A simple saltwater rinse can be soothing for sore gums. Stir about half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and swish it in your mouth two or three times a day to help calm the area.
Avoid Irritants
Try to steer clear of situations that could aggravate your gums. This includes very hot or cold drinks, spicy foods, and mouthwashes that contain alcohol. Exploring different home treatment options for sensitivity can provide some comfort.
When to See a Dentist About Your Gums
Home care can help you manage the discomfort, but it won’t fix the cause of the swelling. If you experience any of the following, it’s time to schedule a visit with a dentist in SW Calgary for a proper dental exam:
- The swelling lasts for more than two days
- The pain is severe or gets in the way of your daily activities
- You have a fever or swelling in your cheek or neck
- You notice a small, pimple-like bump on your gum
- Your tooth in the swollen area feels loose
How a Dental Team Can Help
As dental professionals, our goal is to address the source of your discomfort and get your oral health back to where it should be.
A Thorough Exam & Clean
The first step is usually a careful look at your tooth and the surrounding gum. Sometimes, a professional cleaning and exam is all that’s needed. This removes built-up plaque and tartar that you can’t reach at home, which can allow your gums to heal.
Treat an Infection
If your dental exam points to an abscess or a deeper infection, our team will need to address the problem directly. This could involve a deep cleaning procedure or other treatments designed to clear the infection and let your gum heal properly.
A swollen gum around one tooth is a signal from your body that you shouldn’t ignore. While it’s often not a serious issue, it could point to a condition that requires professional care. Our team at Ti Dental can help identify the cause and guide you toward a healthy, comfortable smile. If you have concerns about a swollen gum, reach out to us to schedule an appointment.
